Old Newgate Prison & Copper Mine

The Old Newgate Prison & Copper Mine in East Granby, Connecticut didn't always house the criminal element. When it first opened in 1705, it was the country's very first copper mine, and was eventually converted into America's very first prison. The Old Newgate Prison became a dank, dark place where men went, and often times never returned. Old Newgate Prison operated as a copper mine for five-decades before becoming unprofitable, and that's when the Connecticut General Assembly decided, heck, why not turn it into a prison? The very first inmate was burglar John Hinson, he managed to escape his cell 18 days later, but for a time the prison also held Tories and Loyalists during the American Revolutionary War. As if being locked up wasn't bad enough, prisoners were also expected to work the mine, and it was during this time period when the Old Newgate Prison got the nickname "Hell". Both men and woman inmates were expected to work in the mines, and no one got off easy.  There were many escape attempts, and considering the conditions, you can hardly blame the prisoners from trying. In 1827 inmate, Abel Starkey died after falling to his death during an escape attempt that involved a homemade rope. Abel's just one of the many ghosts said to be hanging around today, scaring guests brave enough to explore the historic grounds all alone.  In 1827 the prison met its eventual closure, and 81 remaining prisoners were shipped off to Wethersfield State Prison. Once emptied, mining continued as it had before. Finally, at the beginning of the 20th century, the Old Newgate became a tourist attraction and a National Hisoric Landmark with a reputation for continuing to house the souls of men who died tragically during its days as a mine and prison. Many visitors to Newgate have reported hearing the sounds of disembodied voices echoing through the darkened mine tunnels once worked by so many dangerous people. Many also claim to experience shadowy men and women roaming the corridors, or watching tour groups from the dark shadows. Today Old Newgate Prison & Copper Mine has become a favorite stop for history lovers and ghost story enthusiasts, and as of May 2014, reopened following an extensive restoration project. Call ahead to book your tours, and let us know if you experience your very own paranormal encounter in the comments below! -Roadtrippers Connecticut's first prison (1773-1827).  Previously an old copper mine (1705-1750's) which was later used as solitary confinement for the prison.